Yoga of the Mahamudra

"Do nothing with the body but relax.
Shut firm the mouth and silent remain.
Empty you mind and think of nothing.
Like a hallow bamboo rest at ease in you body.
Giving not nor taking, put your mind at rest.
Mahamudra is like a mind that clings to nothing.
Thus practicing, in time you will reach Buddhahood."
- Tilopa, Song of the Mahamudra


This week, I read the new book by Will Johnson: Yoga of the Mahamudra: The Mystical Way of Balance. (Rochester, Vermont, Inner Traditions, 2005. 151 pages. ISBN: 0892816996.)

The book deals with three mind-body transformative topics: relaxation, the careful use and control of thought processes, and improving awareness of bodily sensations, feelings, and energy. It makes reference to the text "The Song of the Mahamudra" by Tilopa (988-1069) as sung to his disciple Naropa. The mind-body practices discussed include yoga, dance, standing, opening to the flow of energy in the body, mindfulness practices, zen, breath work, vertical and horizontal alignment of the body, balancing, somatic intelligence, bodywork, and the sacramental use of plants.

Another book by Will Johnson that deals with some of the same issues is:
Aligned, Relaxed, Resilient: The Physical Foundations of Mindfulness. (Boston, Shambhala, 2000. 137 pages. ISBN: 1570625182.)

For more information on Will Johnson's programs, go to:

Institute for Embodiment Training
http://www.embodiment.net/
6688 Grandview Road, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 5Y7, Canada
Phone: 250-746-7618
email: tifet@embodiment.net


The Ninefold Path of Embodiment:

1. Gazing at the Beloved
2. The Farzji Dance Troupe
3. Sitting Meditation
4. Mindfulness Practice
5. Bodywork
6. Exercise and Nutrition
7. Samantabhadra/Samantabhadri Circle
8. Water Monkeys
9. Sacramental Plants